Footwear Upper With Zonal Support Areas

ABSTRACT

An improved article of footwear is disclosed herein. The upper of the footwear is disposed on the sole, where the upper is constructed from an inner textile layer, an outer textile layer, and a plurality of compressible segments disposed between the inner and outer textile layers. The upper may further contain numerous portions, or zones. Each zone may differ from the other zones of the upper by the number, shape, size, layout, and material of each compressible segment in that zone. The number, shape, size, layout, and material of the compressible segments in each zone gives each zone a specific degree of flexibility, support, and comfort.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/299,278, entitled “Footwear Upper With Zonal Support Areas”, filed Feb. 24, 2016, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an article of footwear, and, in particular, footwear including an upper designed with zonal support areas constructed with various compression materials enabling each zonal support area to provide varying levels of support.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Footwear, particularly athletic footwear, are worn in a variety of activities including running, walking, hiking, team and individual sports, and any activity where the protection and support of human feet is desired. Articles of footwear typically include an upper affixed upon a sole structure, where the upper is configured to wrap around and contour to the foot of a user while simultaneously securing the footwear to the foot. A variety of materials can be used to form the upper. Uppers in athletic footwear are usually formed from one or more pieces of fabric, leather, and/or plastic that are stitched, adhesively bonded, or otherwise attached together. Other materials, such as synthetic leather, rubber, and/or other components, can also be incorporated into the upper to form an upper having desirable aesthetic and functional features that incorporate durability, flexibility, air permeability and/or other types of desirable properties to the upper. Providing such features in an upper, however, can also increase the undesirable features in an upper. For example, the incorporation of materials, such as leather or rubber, into the upper to increase the strength and durability of the upper may reduce air permeability of the upper, which results in moisture (e.g., perspiration) being trapped within the upper during use. In addition, providing desired features in an upper through added materials can also decrease the other desirable features in an upper. For example, the incorporation of materials, such as plastic and rubber, into the upper to increase the stiffness and support of the upper for athletic use may decrease the comfortability of the footwear, which can reduce the usability of the footwear.

Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide an article of footwear (e.g., for athletic activities) having an upper with zonal areas that vary in the amount of support and cushioning provided. The zonal areas may contain various types of compression materials that contain different shapes. Each zonal area may contain a specific type of compression material, or a specific combination of compression materials, where the compression materials may contain a specific orientation within the zonal area. Each zonal area of the upper may be specifically designed to maintain adequate cushioning and comfort, to provide sufficient flexibility, or to provide sufficient stiffness. The result is a more comfortable article of footwear that is also highly functional for athletic activities. The zonal areas of articles of footwear designed for different athletic activities may differ from one another.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An article of footwear includes an upper with zones, where each zone contains a plurality of compressible segments that are captured or sandwiched between the inner and outer layers of the upper. Each of the compressible segments may be constructed from a different material, preferably a compressible material. Thus, the durometer value, degree of compressibility, and/or degree of flexibility of each of the compressible segments may differ from one another. The properties of the compressible segments are determined by the material from which each compressible segment is constructed, the size of each compressible segment, and the shape of each compressible segment. The compressible segments may be disposed within the zones of the upper in a specific layout that enables the compressible segments to provide structure, support, and comfort to the article of footwear in desired locations. With this configuration and construction of an upper, the desired performance characteristics of an upper of an article of footwear can be more easily implemented into an article of footwear without decreasing other desired performance characteristics or increasing undesired performance characteristics.

In one embodiment, an article of footwear includes a sole structure and an upper disposed on the sole structure. The upper includes a first textile layer, a second textile layer, and a plurality of compressible segments. The first textile layer serves as an interior surface of the upper. The second textile layer serves as an exterior surface of the upper. In addition, the plurality of compressible segments are disposed between the first textile layer and the second textile layer.

In another embodiment, an article of footwear includes a sole structure and an upper coupled to the sole structure. The upper includes at least a first portion and a second portion. The upper further includes a first plurality of compressible segments and a second plurality of compressible segments. The first plurality of compressible segments are disposed in the first portion, while the second plurality of compressible segments are disposed in the second portion. The first plurality of compressible segments are in an at least partially stacked orientation such that the first plurality of compressible segments form a plurality of layers in the first portion of the upper. The second plurality of compressible segments are in an adjacent orientation such that the second plurality of compressible segments form a single layer in the second portion of the upper.

In yet another embodiment, an article of footwear includes a sole structure and an upper coupled to the sole structure. The upper further includes a first compressible segment, a second compressible segment, and a third compressible segment. The first compressible segment is constructed from a first material. The second compressible segment is constructed from a second material. The third compressible segment is constructed from a third material. The first material differs from the second and third compressible materials, while the second compressible material differs from the third compressible material.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of the medial side an embodiment of an article of footwear according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the lateral side of the embodiment of the article of footwear illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 illustrates a rear view of the embodiment of the article of footwear illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 illustrates a front view of the embodiment of the article of footwear illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 illustrates a detailed view of the outer surface of the embodiment of the article of footwear illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 illustrates a side view of a schematic drawing of another embodiment of an article of footwear according to the present invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of a schematic drawing of the embodiment of the article of footwear illustrated in FIG. 6, the schematic drawing illustrating the compression material layup for the tongue region and the toe box region of the article of footwear.

FIG. 8 illustrates a side view of a schematic drawing of the embodiment of the article of footwear illustrated in FIG. 6, the schematic drawing illustrating the compression material layup for the heel region of the article of footwear.

Like reference numerals have been used to identify like elements throughout this disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying figures which form a part hereof wherein like numerals designate like parts throughout, and in which is shown, by way of illustration, embodiments that may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized, and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the following detailed description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of embodiments is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Aspects of the disclosure are disclosed in the accompanying description. Alternate embodiments of the present disclosure and their equivalents may be devised without parting from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. It should be noted that any discussion herein regarding “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, “an exemplary embodiment”, and the like indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, and that such particular feature, structure, or characteristic may not necessarily be included in every embodiment. In addition, references to the foregoing do not necessarily comprise a reference to the same embodiment. Finally, irrespective of whether it is explicitly described, one of ordinary skill in the art would readily appreciate that each of the particular features, structures, or characteristics of the given embodiments may be utilized in connection or combination with those of any other embodiment discussed herein.

Various operations may be described as multiple discrete actions or operations in turn, in a manner that is most helpful in understanding the claimed subject matter. However, the order of description should not be construed as to imply that these operations are necessarily order dependent. In particular, these operations may not be performed in the order of presentation. Operations described may be performed in a different order than the described embodiment. Various additional operations may be performed and/or described operations may be omitted in additional embodiments.

For the purposes of the present disclosure, the phrase “A and/or B” means (A), (B), or (A and B). For the purposes of the present disclosure, the phrase “A, B, and/or C” means (A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C), or (A, B and C).

The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and the like, as used with respect to embodiments of the present disclosure, are synonymous.

As described herein with reference to the example embodiment of FIGS. 1-5, an article of footwear 100 in accordance with the invention includes an upper 200 coupled to a midsole structure 300. The article of footwear 100, also referred to herein as a shoe, can be in the form of a running shoe or other type of athletic shoe. The article of footwear, or shoe, 100 includes a medial side 110 that is oriented along the medial or big toe side of the user's foot, a lateral side 120 that is oriented along the lateral or little toe side of the user's foot, a toe (i.e., front) end 130 that corresponds with the toe end of the user's foot, and a heel (i.e., rear) end 140 that corresponds with the heel of the user's foot. While many of the example embodiments depicted in the figures (including FIGS. 1-4) show an article of footwear (shoe) configured for a left foot, it is noted that the same or similar features can also be provided for an article of footwear (shoe) configured for a right foot (where such features of the right footed shoe are reflection or “mirror image” symmetrical in relation to the left footed shoe, e.g., the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1-4).

The upper 200 defines an envelope or pocket that, when secured to a portion of the sole structure 300 as described herein, covers and protects the foot of the wearer. The upper 200 may include a forefoot region 202 that generally aligns with the ball and toes of a user's foot (i.e., when a user is wearing the shoe), a midfoot region 204 that generally aligns with the arch and instep areas of the user's foot, and a hindfoot region 206 that generally aligns with the heel and ankle areas of the user's foot. The upper may further include an opening 208 formed by the hindfoot region 206 and the midfoot region 204, where the opening 208 provides access to the interior of the upper 200. The upper 200 may possess any dimensions (size/shape) suitable for its described purpose. For example, the upper 200 may possess a “high top” configuration (as illustrated in FIGS. 1-4), in which a hindfoot region 206 of the upper extends over and/or above at least a portion of a user's ankle. Alternatively, other embodiments, the upper 200 may possess a “mid top” configuration (in which the upper extends to slightly below or at the user's ankle), a low top configuration, or any other suitable configuration. The upper 200 is coupled to the sole structure 300 via any conventional and/or other suitable manner (e.g., via any form of adhesion or bonding, via a woven connection, via one or more types of fasteners, etc.).

The sole structure 300 may include a midsole structure 310 and an outsole structure 320 that provide features of suitable cushioning and comfort while maintaining adequate flexibility to a user during use of the shoe 100. The midsole structure 310 may be constructed from a thermoplastic or thermoset material, such as an ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam material, that is configured to compress on impact and provide cushion and support to the foot as the article of footwear 100 impacts a support surface. The outsole 320 may be constructed from a material that is durable and contains a durometer value greater than the midsole 310. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-4, the outsole 320 is configured to cover the entire bottom surface of the midsole 310. In another embodiment, the outsole 320 may be separated into multiple regions that are positioned on the midsole 310 at locations that receive the most wear on the bottom surface of the midsole 200.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4, the forefoot region 202 of the upper 200 includes the toe box portion 210 that spans over the toe end 130 and vamp of the shoe 100 from the medial side 110 to the lateral side 120 of the shoe 100. The toe box portion 210 includes a front end 212 and a rear end 214, where the front end 212 of the toe box portion 210 is in closer proximity to the toe end 130 of the shoe 100 than the rear end 214. In other words, the rear end 214 of the toe box portion 210 is in closer proximity to the heel end 140 of the shoe 100 than the front end 212.

The midfoot region 204 of the upper 200 may include a tongue portion 220 and two bridge members 230(1), 230(2). The tongue portion 220 of the upper 200 may include a front end 222 and a rear end 224. As illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4, the front end 222 of the tongue portion 220 may be coupled to the rear end 214 of toe box portion 210, such that the tongue portion 220 extends rearwardly and upwardly from the toe box portion 210. The front end 222 of the tongue portion 220 may be coupled to the rear end 214 of the toe box portion 210 by any suitable process including, without limitation, stitching, glue, cement, etc. As illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4, a seam 215 couples the tongue portion 220 to the toe box portion 210, which may be a flat-lock stitch. In another embodiment, the toe box portion 210 and the tongue member 220 may be a single continuous member. The rear end 224 of the tongue portion 220 may form part of the opening 208 to the interior of the upper 200. Further illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4, the medial side 110 of the shoe 100 includes a first bridge member 230(1), while the lateral side 120 of the shoe 100 includes a second bridge member 230(2). The tongue portion 220 is disposed between the bridge members 230(1), 230(2).

FIGS. 1-3 further illustrate the hindfoot region 206, which includes a heel portion 240 of the upper 200. The heel portion 240 spans continuously around the heel end 140 of the shoe 100 between the medial side 110 and the lateral side 120 of the shoe 100. The heel portion 240 includes a top end 242 that forms a portion of the opening 208 with the rear end 224 of the tongue portion 220. The heel portion 240 includes a medial end 244 that is located on the medial side 110 of the shoe 100, and a lateral end 246 that is located on the lateral side 120 of the shoe 100. FIGS. 1 and 2 best illustrate the bridge members 230(1), 230(2) coupling the heel portion 240 to the toe box portion 210. The first bridge member 230(1) may couple the medial end 244 of the heel portion 240 to the rear end 214 of the toe box portion 210, while the second bridge member 230(2) may couple the lateral end 246 of the heel portion 240 to the rear end 214 of the toe box portion 210. The bridge members 230(1), 230(2) may be coupled to the heel portion 240 and the toe box portion 210 by any suitable process including, without limitation, stitching, glue, cement, etc. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, a front seam 234(1) adheres the first bridge member 230(1) to the toe box portion 210, and a rear seam 236(1) adheres the first bridge member 230(1) to the medial end 244 of the heel portion 240. Furthermore, a front seam 234(2) adheres the second bridge member 230(2) to the toe box portion 210, and a rear seam 236(2) adheres the second bridge member 230(2) to the lateral end 246 of the heel portion 240.

Each of the bridge members 230(1), 230(2) include a series of eyelets 232. Some of the eyelets 232 may be in the form of openings in the bridge members 230(1), 230(2) (the eyelets 232 proximate to the opening 208 of the upper 200), and other eyelets 232 may be in the form of loops formed on the bridge members 230(1), 230(2) (the eyelets 232 proximate to the toebox 210 of the upper 200). In addition, as illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4, the toe box portion 210 may include sets of eyelets 218. The toe box portion 210 includes a pair of eyelets 218 on the medial side 110 and a pair of eyelets 218 on the lateral side 120. Furthermore, a fastening element or fastener 238 (e.g., a lace or cord) may be threaded through the eyelets 234. The fastener 238 may be used to tighten and secure the upper 200 around a foot placed within the upper 200.

The toe box portion 210, tongue portion 220, and heel portion 230 of the embodiment of the shoe 100, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-4, are constructed differently than the bridge members 230(1), 230(2). As illustrated, the bridge members 230(1), 230(2) may be constructed from a single material, such as, but not limited to, leather, rubber, synthetic leather, plastic, etc. Meanwhile, the toe box portion 210, tongue portion 220, and heel portion 240 are constructed from a plurality of materials. Turning to FIG. 5, illustrated is a detailed view of the heel portion 240. While FIG. 5 only illustrates a detailed view of the heel portion 240, it is to be understood that the discussion of FIG. 5 applies to the construction of each of the toe box portion 210, the tongue portion 220, and the heel portion 240 of the shoe 100. Each of the portions 210, 220, 240 of the present invention is a sandwich construction of an inner textile material 250 (best illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 proximate to the opening 208), an outer textile material 260, and a plurality of compressible material segments strategically disposed between the inner textile material 250 and the outer textile material 260. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-5, the outer textile material 260 may contain a plurality of openings or perforations that at least partially expose the compressible materials that are disposed between the inner textile material 250 and the outer textile material 260. In an example embodiment, the outer textile material 260 can comprise a mesh-like material that overlies the compressible materials forming the middle or central part of the upper (i.e., the part disposed between inner and outer textile materials 250, 260). Each of the portions 210, 220, 240 of the upper 200 may have a unique layout of the compressible members. In addition, each of the compressible members of a portion 210, 220, 240 of the upper 200 may contain different durometers, degrees of compression, degrees of flexibility, etc. The different degrees of compression and/or flexibility for compressible members (which can be defined, e.g., by durometer values associated with the compressible members) can be achieved in any suitable manner including, without limitation, utilizing different materials of construction for different compressible members, utilizing different thicknesses for different compressible members, selection of sizes, spacing, geometries and/or orientations of different compressible members, partially stacking or layering of two or more compressible members over one or more particular regions of the upper, and any one or more combinations thereof.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4, the toe box portion 210 contains three compressible segments 216(1), 216(2), 216(3). The three compressible segments 216(1), 216(2), 216(3) may be at least partially stacked over or on top of one another within the toe box portion 210 forming multiple layers of compressible segments 216(1), 216(2), 216(3) between the inner textile material 250 and the outer textile material 260. Furthermore, each of the three compressible segments 216(1), 216(2), 216(3) may contain a different durometer value and a different degree of compressibility. The first compressible segment 216(1) may be the softest of the compressible segments 216(1), 216(2), 216(3), and thus may have the lowest durometer value. The first compressible segment 216(1) may be constructed from a soft foam material, such as, but not limited to, a memory foam. As illustrated, the first material segment 216(1) may also cover, or span, the entire portion of the toe box portion 210.

Continuing with reference to FIGS. 1, 2, and 4, the second compressible segment 216(2) of the toe box portion 210 of the shoe 100 is partially stacked or partially disposed over or on top of the first compressible segment 216(1). The second compressible segment 216(2) is a single continuous piece of material that is partially disposed over or on top of the first compressible segment 216(1) (thus leaving a portion of the first compressible segment 216(1) exposed) and extends around the curvature of the toe end 130 of the shoe 100 from the medial side 110 to the lateral side 120 of the shoe 100. The second compressible segment 216(2) may have a durometer value that is greater than the durometer value of the first compressible segment 216(1) but smaller than the durometer value of the third compressible segment 216(3). Thus, the second compressible segment 216(2) may be less compressible than the first compressible segment 216(1) and more compressible than the third compressible segment 216(3). The second compressible segment 216(2) may be constructed from a more dense foam material than the first compressible segment 216(1). For example, the second compressible segment 216(2) may be constructed from, but not limited to, an ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1, 2, and 4, the third compressible segment 216(3) of the toe box portion 210 of the shoe 100 is partially stacked or partially disposed over or on top of the second compressible segment 216(2) (thus leaving a portion of the second compressible segment 216(2) exposed), which, as previously described, is partially stacked over or on top of the first compressible segment 216(1). As illustrated, the third compressible segment 216(3) is also a continuous piece of material that extends along the curvature of the toe end 130 of the shoe 100, from the medial side 110 to the lateral side 120 of the shoe 100. FIGS. 1, 2, and 4 illustrate that the middle and the rear end 214 of the toe box portion 210 only contain the first compressible segment 216(1), while the front end 210 and medal and lateral sides of the toe box portion 210 contain all three compressible segments 216(1), 216(2), 216(3). The third compressible segment 216(3) has a smaller surface area than the second compressible segment 216(2), and is mainly positioned along the toe end 130 of the shoe, rather than down the medial and lateral sides 110, 120 like that of the second compressible segment 216(2). The third compressible segment 216(3) may have the largest durometer value when compared to the first and second compressible segments 216(1), 216(2), which means that the third compressible segment 216(3) may be the hardest, least compressible, and least flexible of the compressible segments 216(1), 216(2), 216(3) of the toe box portion 210. The third compressible segment 216(3) may be constructed from a high-density foam material.

The construction and placement of each of the compressible segments 216(1), 216(2), 216(3) of the toe box portion 210 enables the toe box portion 210 to bend and conform to the movements of a foot placed within the upper 200 of the shoe 100, while still providing structure and protection to the toes of the foot and the toe end 130 of the shoe 100. For example, in the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1-5, the toe box portion includes one or more regions in which there is a single compressible segment layer (i.e., area(s) in which the compressible segment 216(1) is not covered by segment 216(2) and/or segment 216(3)), one or more regions including two stacked compressible segment layers (i.e., area(s) in which compressible segment 216(2) is stacked upon or overlies compressible segment 216(1)), and one or more regions including three stacked compressible segment layers (i.e., area(s) in which compressible segment 216(3) is stacked upon or overlies compressible segments 216(2) and 216(1)). The most compressible and softest foam material of the first compressible segment 216(1) is disposed closest to the foot placed within the upper 200 when compared with the second and third compressible segments 216(2), 216(3). Being the softest and most compressible of the compressible segments 216(1), 216(2), 216(3), the first compressible segment 216(1) provides comfort to the foot. In addition, because the softer, more flexible, first compressible segment 216(1) covers the entire toe box portion 210, the toe box portion 210 is able to bend during movement and use of the foot (e.g., the heel off and toe-off/pre-swing phases of a user's gait; the pivoting on the toes of a foot during sports, such as basketball; etc.). The harder and less flexible second and third compressible segments 216(2), 216(3) provide structure to the toe end 130 of the shoe 100. Accordingly, the second and third compressible segments 216(2), 216(3) provide protection to the toes of the foot placed within the upper 200 because the second and third compressible segments 216(2), 216(3) are stiffer than the first compressible segment 216(1). The second and third compressible segments 216(2), 216(3) may provide protection against objects that strike the toe end 130 of the shoe 100. In addition, the second and third compressible segments 216(2), 216(3) may provide added durability to the toe box 210 of the shoe 100.

As further illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4, the tongue portion 220 contains two compressible segments 226(1), 226(2). Unlike the toe box portion 210, the compressible segments 226(1), 226(2) of the tongue portion 220 are oriented adjacent to one another. Thus, the compressible segments 226(1), 226(2) of the tongue portion 220 form a side-by-side relationship to one another, rather than being stacked over or on top of one another, like that of the toe box portion 210. Thus, the tongue portion 220 contains only a single layer of compressible segments 226(1), 226(2) between the inner textile material 250 and the outer textile material 260. As best illustrated in FIG. 4, the first compressible segment 226(1) spans from the front end 222 of the tongue portion 220 to the second end 224 of the tongue portion 220. The second compressible segment 226(2) is disposed proximate to the second end 224 of the tongue portion 220, but does not span the width of the tongue portion 220. Thus, as illustrated, the portion of the first compressible segment 226(1) disposed proximate to the second end 224 of the tongue portion 220 is formed around the second compressible segment 226(2). In other words, the second compressible segment 226(2) is disposed in an area of the tongue portion 220 that is nested within an area of the tongue portion 220 occupied by the first compressible segment 226(1).

In addition, each of the compressible segments 226(1), 226(2) of the tongue portion 220 may contain a different durometer value and a different degree of compressibility. The first compressible segment 226(1) may be the softest of the two compressible segments 226(1), 226(2), and thus may have the lowest durometer value. The first compressible segment 226(1) of the tongue portion 220 may be constructed of a material similar to that of the first compressible segment 226(1) of the toe box portion 210. Thus, the first compressible segment 226(1) of the tongue portion 220 may be constructed from a soft foam material, such as, but not limited to, a type of memory foam. The second compressible segment 226(2) of the tongue portion 220 may be constructed from a material similar to that of the second compressible segment 216(2) of the toe box portion 210. Thus, the second compressible segment 226(2) may be constructed from a foam material, such as, but not limited to, an EVA foam.

The compressibility and flexibility of the first compressible segment 226(1) enables the tongue portion 220 to flex and move during placement of a foot within the upper 200 of the shoe 100, and during use of the shoe 100. Furthermore, the tongue portion 220 may be constructed mostly with the softer and more compressible first compressible segment 226(1) because the tongue portion 220 rests against the instep of the foot placed within the upper 200. The softer and more compressible first compressible segment 226(1) of the tongue portion 220 provides comfort to the foot disposed within the upper 200. In addition, the harder and less flexible second compressible segment 226(2) provides structure to the rear end 224 of the tongue 220, enabling the rear end 224 of the tongue portion 220 to be more easily grasped by the user of the shoe 100. This enables the user of the shoe 100 to more easily manipulate the movement and position of the tongue portion 220 for placement of a foot within the upper 200.

The heel portion 240, as illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, 3, and 5, contains six compressible segments 248(1), 248(2), 248(3), 248(4), 248(5), 248(6). Similar to the tongue portion 220, the compressible segments 248(1), 248(2), 248(3), 248(4), 248(5), 248(6) are oriented adjacent to one another and form a side-by-side relationship with one another. Thus, the heel portion 240 contains only a single layer of compressible segments 248(1), 248(2), 248(3), 248(4), 248(5), 248(6) between the inner textile material 250 and the outer textile material 260. As best illustrated in FIG. 2, the first compressible segment 248(1) extends along the lateral end 246 of the heel portion 240, from the midsole 310 to the top end 242 of the heel portion 240. As best illustrated in FIG. 1, the third compressible segment 248(3) extends along the medial end 244 of the heel portion 240, from the midsole 310 to the top end 242 of the heel portion 240. The second compressible segment 248(2) is positioned adjacent to both the first compressible segment 248(1) and the third compressible segment 248(3) and extends around the curvature of the heel end 140 of the shoe 100 between the first and third compressible segments 248(1), 248(3). The first and third compressible segments 248(1), 248(3) may be mirror images of one another. The second compressible segment 248(2) also covers the heel portion 240 from the midsole 310 upward to top end 242 of the heel portion 240. As best illustrated in FIG. 3, the middle of the second compressible segment 248(2) contains a cut-out section or opening, where the opening is located along the curvature of the heel end 140 of the shoe 100. The opening, as illustrated in FIG. 3, may be a square or a diamond. However, in other embodiments of the shoe 100, the second compressible segment 248(2) may contain a cut-out section or opening having another shape, may contain more than one cut-out section or opening, or may not contain any cut-out section or opening. As illustrated in FIG. 3, disposed, or nested, within the opening are the fourth compressible segment 248(4) and the fifth compressible segment 248(5). The fourth compressible segment 248(4) is oriented in the upper portion (i.e., closer to the top end 242 of the heel end 240) of the opening, while the fifth compressible segment 248(5) is oriented in the lower portion (i.e., closer to the midsole 310) of the opening. The fourth and fifth compressible segments 248(4), 248(5) may be mirror images of one another. Furthermore, the sixth compressible segment 248(6) is disposed, or nested, centrally within the opening of the second compressible segment 248(2) and between the fourth compressible segment 248(4) and the fifth compressible segment 248(5).

For the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-5, the first, third, and fifth compressible segments 248(1), 248(3), 248(5) may be constructed from the same or similar material as the third compressible segment 216(3) of the toe box portion 210. For example, the first, third, and fifth compressible segments 248(1), 248(3), 248(5) may have the largest durometer value(s) when compared to the durometer values of the compressible segments 248(2), 248(4), and 248(6) of the heel portion 240. It then follows that the first, third, and fifth compressible segments 248(1), 248(3), 248(5) may be the harder, less flexible, and less compressible of the compressible segments 248(1), 248(2), 248(3), 248(4), 248(5), 248(6) of the heel portion 240. The first, third, and fifth compressible segments 248(1), 248(3), 248(5) may be constructed from a high-density foam material.

The second and sixth compressible segments 248(2), 248(6) may be constructed from the same or similar material as the second compressible segment 216(2) of the toe box portion 210 and the second compressible segment 226(2) of the tongue portion 220. Thus, the second and sixth compressible segments 248(2), 248(6) may have a durometer value that is greater than the durometer value of the fourth compressible segment 248(4), but smaller than the durometer value of the first, third, and fifth compressible segments 248(1), 248(3), 248(5). Thus, the second and sixth compressible segments 248(2), 248(6) may be less compressible than the fourth compressible segment 248(4), but more compressible than the first, third, and fifth compressible segments 248(1), 248(3), 248(5). The second and sixth compressible segments 248(2), 248(6) may be constructed from a material, such as, but not limited to, an EVA foam.

Finally, the fourth compressible segment 248(4) may be constructed from the same material as the first compressible segment 216(1) of the toe box portion 210 and the first compressible segment 226(1) of the tongue portion 220. Thus, the fourth compressible segment 248(4) may be constructed from a low-density foam material, such as, but not limited to, a type of memory foam. The fourth compressible segment 248(4) may be the most compressible, most flexible, and softest of the compressible segments 248(1), 248(2), 248(3), 248(4), 248(5), 248(6) of the heel portion 240. The fourth compressible segment 248(4) may have the lowest durometer value of the compressible segments 248(1), 248(2), 248(3), 248(4), 248(5), 248(6) of the heel portion 240.

The compressible segments 248(1), 248(2), 248(3), 248(4), 248(5), 248(6) of the heel portion 240 may be oriented or positioned within the heel portion 240 such that the heel portion 240 provides adequate support to the upper 200 and the foot disposed within the upper 200, while also providing the maximum amount of comfort to the foot disposed within the upper 200. The first and third segments 248(1), 248(3), which are located on the lateral side 120 and medial side 110 of the shoe 100, respectively, provide lateral and medial support to a foot disposed within the upper 200 because the first and third segments 248(1), 248(3) are two of the stiffer segments of the compressible segments 248(1), 248(2), 248(3), 248(4), 248(5), 248(6). Thus, the first and third compressible segments 248(1), 248(3) may prevent the rolling of the ankle in the lateral and medial directions. The fifth compressible segment 248(5), which is positioned along the curvature of the heel portion 240 proximate to the midsole 310, may provide heel support and impact protection to the heel of the foot disposed within the upper 200 because the fifth compressible segment 248(5) is also one of the harder segments of the compressible segments 248(1), 248(2), 248(3), 248(4), 248(5), 248(6).

In addition, the second compressible segment 248(2) and the sixth compressible segment 248(6), which together form the largest portion of the of the heel portion 240, may provide a balance of support to the heel portion 240, and comfort to the heel of the foot disposed within the upper 200. The large surface area of the second and sixth compressible segments 248(2), 248(6), combined with being constructed from an EVA foam material, enables the heel portion 240 of the upper to retain its form and structure, even when a foot is not disposed within the upper 200. In addition, because the second and sixth compressible segments 248(2), 248(6) may be constructed from an EVA foam material, the second and sixth compressible segments 248(2), 248(6) may compress and flex to a larger degree when under a large amount of force, but may only compress or flex a small degree when under small amounts of force. The EVA foam material of the second and sixth compressible segments 248(2), 248(6) may provide support and structure to the heel portion 240 without hindering performance or preventing movement of the foot with the shoe 100.

Finally, the fourth compressible segment 248(4), being constructed from the softest of the foams when comparing the compressible segments 248(1), 248(2), 248(3), 248(4), 248(5), 248(6) of the heel portion 240, provides some degree of flexure and comfort to the heel portion 240 that is constructed mostly from the stiffer less flexible segments 248(1), 248(2), 248(3), 248(5), 248(6). The fourth compressible segment 248(4) prevents the heel portion 240 from being overly stiff, and thus, further enables the heel portion 240 to flex and move when forces are applied to the heel portion 240 of the shoe 100 from the foot.

Thus, as previously described herein, the embodiment of FIGS. 1-5 provides an upper 200 with different zones of support in the toe box portion 210, tongue portion 220 and the heel portion 240, with bridge members 230(1), 230(2) providing a bridge between the forefoot and midfoot regions 202, 204, which include the toe box portion 210 and tongue portion 220, respectively, and the hindfoot region 206, which comprises the heel portion 240. The sub-zones of support in each zone (as defined by the various individual compressible segments and/or areas defined by overlapping compressible segments within the toe box portion, tongue portion and heel portion) provide varying degrees of flexibility/cushioning (lower durometer values) at certain areas within the zones as well as varying degrees of support (high durometer values) at other areas within the zones. In other words, the upper exhibits a compressibility gradient when transitioning between different zones of the upper (e.g., between toe box portion, tongue portion, heel portion and bridge members) as well as different sub-zones with zones of the upper (e.g., between different compressible segments within each of the toe box portion, tongue portion, heel portion and bridge members).

Turning to FIGS. 6-8, illustrated is a second embodiment of a shoe 1100 that contains compressible segments in the upper 1200 of the shoe 1100, as explained previously. FIGS. 6-8, however, illustrate the compressible segments in an orientation that differs from that illustrated in FIGS. 1-5. Thus, the embodiment of FIGS. 6-8 demonstrates that the compressible segments may be disposed in the upper 1200 in various orientations to provide zones with varying degrees of support and comfort in a shoe, which creates unique performance properties in each shoe.

The second embodiment of the shoe 1100 contains an overall structure similar to that of the first embodiment of the shoe 100, where the shoe 1100 includes an upper 1200 and a sole structure 1300. The upper 1200 of the second embodiment of the shoe 1100 may include a forefoot region 1202 that generally aligns with the ball and toes of a user's foot (i.e., when a user is wearing the shoe), a midfoot region 1204 that generally aligns with the arch and instep areas of the user's foot, and a hindfoot region 1206 that generally aligns with the heel and ankle areas of the user's foot. The forefoot region 1202 may includes a toe box portion 1210. The midfoot region 1204 may include a tongue portion 1220 and two bridge members 1230(1), 1230(2). Finally, the hindfoot region 1206 may include a heel portion 1240. Furthermore, the sole structure includes a midsole 1310 and an outsole 1320.

As best illustrated in FIG. 7, the toe box portion 1210 of the second embodiment of the shoe 1100 contains three compressible segments 1216(1), 1216(2), 1216(3) that are stacked on top of one another, similar to that of the toe box portion 210 illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4. The three compressible segments 1216(1), 1216(2), 1216(3) may be substantially similar in shape, but may be different in surface area. The three compressible segments 1216(1), 1216(2), 1216(3) may each be 1 mm in thickness. As illustrated in FIG. 7, the first compressible segment 1216(1) contains the smallest surface area, the third compressible segment 1216(3) contains the largest surface area, and the second compressible segment 1216(2) contains a surface area that is greater than the first compressible segment 1216(1), but smaller than the third compressible segment 1216(3). The third compressible segment 1216(3) may cover the entire area of the toe box portion 1210, with the second compressible segment 1216(2) being disposed, or stacked, on top of the third compressible segment 1216(2), and the first compressible segment 1216(1) being disposed, or stacked, on top of the second compressible segment 1216(2). As illustrated in FIG. 7, the first and second compressible segments 1216(1), 1216(2) are centrally stacked on top of the third compressible segment 1216(3).

Furthermore, each of the three compressible segments 1216(1), 1216(2), 1216(3) may contain a different durometer value and a different degree of compressibility. The third compressible segment 1216(3) may be the softest of the compressible segments 1216(1), 1216(2), 1216(3), and thus may have the lowest durometer value. Thus, the third compressible segment 1216(3) may be constructed from a soft low-density foam material, such as, but not limited to, a type of memory foam. In addition, the second compressible segment 1216(2) may have a durometer value that is greater than the durometer value of the third compressible segment 1216(3) but smaller than the durometer value of the first compressible segment 1216(1). Thus, the second compressible segment 1216(2) may be less compressible than the third compressible segment 1216(3) and more compressible than the first compressible segment 1216(1). The second compressible segment 1216(2) may be constructed from a foam material, such as, but not limited to, an EVA foam. It then follows that the first compressible segment 1216(1) may have the largest durometer value when compared to the second and third compressible segments 1216(2), 1216(3), which means that the first compressible segment 1216(1) may be the hardest and less compressible of the compressible segments 1216(1), 1216(2), 1216(3) of the toe box portion 1210. The first compressible segment 1216(1) may be constructed from a high-density foam material.

Thus, the orientation of the compressible segments 1216(1), 1216(2), 1216(3) of the toe box portion 1210 of the second embodiment of the shoe 1100 differs from that of the first embodiment of the shoe 100. This gives the toe box portion 1210 of the second embodiment of the shoe 1100 different zones of support and protection than that of the toe box portion 210 of the first embodiment of the shoe 100. The most compressible and softest foam material of the third compressible segment 1216(3) is disposed closest to the foot placed within the upper 1200 when compared with the first and second compressible segments 1216(1), 1216(2). Being the softest and most compressible of the compressible segments 1216(1), 1216(2), 1216(3), the third compressible segment 1216(3) provides additional comfort to the foot by being disposed closest to the foot. In addition, because the softer, more compressible, third compressible segment 1216(3) covers the entire toe box portion 1210, the toe box portion 1210 is capable of bending and flexing during use of the foot (e.g., the heel off and toe-off/pre-swing phases of a user's gait; the pivoting on the toes of a foot during sports, such as basketball; etc.) disposed within the upper 1200. The harder and less compressible first and second compressible segments 1216(1), 1216(2) may provide structure to the toe box portion 1210 enabling the toe box portion 1210 to retain its shape, even when a foot is not disposed within the upper 1200. Unlike the toe box portion 210 illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4, the toe box portion 1210 illustrated in FIG. 7 does not provide structure to the toe end 1130 of the shoe 1100. However, being placed centrally on the toe box portion 1210, the first and second compressible segments 1216(1), 1216(2) may also provide additional protection against objects falling or striking the top of the toe box portion 1210.

The second embodiment of the tongue portion 1220 of the shoe 1100, as also illustrated in FIG. 7, contains three compressible segments 1226(1), 1226(2), 1226(3) that, unlike the toe box portion 1210, are oriented in a side-by-side relationship, where the compressible segments 1226(1), 1226(2), 1226(3) are nested within and next to each other. The three compressible segments 1226(1), 1226(2), 1226(3) may all be substantially different in shape, but may each be approximately 2 mm in thickness. Thus, the compressible segments 1226(1), 1226(2), 1226(3) of the tongue portion 1220 are thicker than the compressible segments 1216(1), 1216(2), 1216(3) of the toe box portion 1210. As illustrated in FIG. 7, the first compressible segment 1226(1) may be triangular and disposed adjacent to the second compressible segment 1226(2). The second compressible segment 1226(2) may have a generally inverted V shape, where the triangular shape of the third compressible segment 1226(3) is nested within the second compressible segment 1226(2).

Furthermore, each of the three compressible segments 1226(1), 1226(2), 1226(3) may be constructed from the same type of material, and thus each of the compressible segments 1226(1), 1226(2), 1226(3) may contain the same or similar durometer value and same degree of compressibility. All three compressible segments 1226(1), 1226(2), 1226(3) may be constructed from the same material as the second compressible segment 1216(2) of the toe box portion 1210. Thus, the compressible segments 1226(1), 1226(2), 1226(3) may be constructed from a foam material, such as, but not limited to, an EVA foam or material with similar properties.

Unlike the tongue portion 220 of the first embodiment of the shoe 100, the tongue portion 1220 illustrated in FIG. 7 contains three compressible segments 1226(1), 1226(2), 1226(3), and each of the compressible segments 1226(1), 1226(2), 1226(3) are of the same durometer and degree of compressibility. Thus, the tongue portion 1220, as illustrated in FIG. 7, is less compressible when compared with the tongue portion 220 of the first embodiment of the shoe 100. The tongue portion 1220 of the second embodiment of the shoe 1100 may not be as comfortable against the foot as the tongue portion 220 of the first embodiment of the shoe 100 because the tongue portion 220 of the first embodiment of the shoe 100 is mostly constructed from a soft foam material, such as memory foam. In addition, because each of the compressible segments 1226(1), 1226(2), 1226(3) of the tongue portion illustrated in FIG. 7 are constructed from an EVA foam, the tongue portion 1220 illustrated in FIG. 7 may be stiffer and less flexible than the first embodiment of the tongue portion 220 illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4. A stiffer tongue portion 1220 may be more desirable in a shoe 1100 that is designed to be used in demanding situations (e.g., basketball, soccer, trail running, etc.) where the shoe 1100 undergoes a large amount of stress forces and stiffness is desired. The tongue portion 1220 of the second embodiment of the shoe 1100, however, may still contain some degree of flexibility through the combination of the EVA foam of the compressible segments 1226(1), 1226(2), 1226(3) and the seams/joint between each of the compressible segments 1226(1), 1226(2), 1226(3). The tongue portion 1220 may be more easily flexed or bent at the seams/joints between each of the compressible segments 1226(1), 1226(2), 1226(3) than across one or several of the compressible segments 1226(1), 1226(2), 1226(3). Thus, the seams/joint between each of the compressible segments 1226(1), 1226(2), 1226(3) of the second embodiment of the tongue portion 1220 may make the tongue portion 1220 flexible enough for the tongue portion 1220 to be manipulated and moved to a degree that facilitates placement of the foot within the upper 1200.

Turning to FIG. 8, the heel portion 1240 of the second embodiment of the shoe 1100 contains three compressible segments 1248(1), 1248(2), 1248(3) that are oriented in a side-by-side relationship similar to that of the tongue portion 1220 illustrated in FIG. 7. The three compressible segments 1248(1), 1248(2), 1248(3) may all be substantially different in shape, but may each be approximately 4 mm in thickness. Thus, the compressible segments 1248(1), 1248(2), 1248(3) of the heel portion 1240 are thicker than the compressible segments 1216(1), 1216(2), 1216(3) of the toe box portion 1210 and the compressible segments 1226(1), 1226(2), 1226(3) of the tongue portion 1220. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the second compressible segment 1248(2) may have a generally inverted V shape, where the triangular shape of the first compressible segment 1248(1) is nested within the second compressible segment 1248(2). Furthermore, the third compressible segment 1248(3) may be triangular and disposed adjacent to the second compressible segment 1248(2).

Unlike the tongue portion 1220, each of the three compressible segments 1248(1), 1248(2), 1248(3) may be constructed from different compressible materials, which gives each compressible segment 1248(1), 1248(2), 1248(3) a different durometer value and different degree of compressibility and flexibility. The first compressible segment 1248(1) may have the largest durometer value when compared to the durometer values of the second and third compressible segments 1248(2), 1248(3), which means that the first compressible segment 1248(1) may be the hardest and less compressible of the compressible segments 1248(1), 1248(2), 1248(3) of the heel portion 1240. Thus, the first compressible segment 1248(1) may be the least flexible of the compressible segments 1248(1), 1248(2), 1248(3) and may be constructed from a high-density foam material. In addition, the second compressible segment 1248(2) may have a durometer value that is greater than the durometer value of the third compressible segment 1248(3) but smaller than the durometer value of the first compressible segment 1248(1). Thus, the second compressible segment 1248(2) may be less compressible and flexible than the third compressible segment 1248(3), but more compressible and flexible than the first compressible segment 1248(1). The second compressible segment 1248(2) may be constructed from an EVA foam or other similar material. The third compressible segment 1248(3) may be the softest, most compressible, and most flexible of the compressible segments 1248(1), 1248(2), 1248(3). Thus, the third compressible segment 1248(3) may have the lowest durometer value, and may be constructed from a soft foam material, such as, but not limited to, memory foam.

The orientation of the compressible segments 1248(1), 1248(2), 1248(3) of the heel portion illustrated in FIG. 8 extends across the heel portion 1240 from the medial side 1110 of the shoe 1100 to the lateral side 1120 (not illustrated) of the shoe 1100. Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 8, one side 1110, 1120 of the heel portion 1240 may contain the more compressible and flexible third compressible segment 1248(3), while the opposite side 1110, 1120 may contain the less compressible and stiffer first and second compressible segments 1248(1), 1248(2). This orientation of the compressible segments 1248(1), 1248(2), 1248(3) of the heel portion of the shoe 1100 enables a user of the shoe 1100 to bend their ankle and move there foot more easily in one direction, while the shoe 1100 provides stiffness and structure to in the other direction. For example, if the third compressible segment 1248(3) is positioned on the medial side 1110 of the shoe 1100, then the shoe 1100 would provide additional support and structure to bending of the ankle and movement of the foot in the lateral direction. In addition, if the third compressible segment 1248(3) is positioned on the medial side of the shoe 1100, the third compressible segment 1248(3) may provide additional comfort to the arch of the foot disposed within the shoe 1100. Because the heel portion 1240 is constructed mostly of the least compressible and second least compressible of the materials utilized for the compressible segments 1248(1), 1248(2), 1248(3), heel portion 1240 retains its shape even when a foot is not disposed within the upper 1200 of the shoe 1100.

The present invention enables performance customization of a shoe, such as shoes 100, 1100, where the shoe 100, 1100 contains specific zones and sub-zones of support and/or comfort. Each of the toe box portion 210, 1210, tongue portion 220, 1220, and heel portion 240, 1240 may form a different zone of compression with a unique level of support, flexibility, and comfort based on the compressible segments in each of the portions 210, 220, 240, 1210, 1220, 1240. In addition, each of the compressible segments may serve as a sub-zone with a unique level of support, flexibility and comfort based on the material that each compressible segment is constructed from and the shape and size of each compressible segment. Each of the zones and/or sub-zones together provide unique performance characteristics for the shoes 100, 1100. These zones and sub-zones, as demonstrated when comparing the first embodiment of the shoe 100 to the second embodiment of the shoe 1100, can vary from shoe to shoe depending on the designed purpose and use of each shoe. The combination of the zones and/or sub-zones enables a shoe manufacturer to more easily customize performance characteristics of a shoe for a given situation, environment and/or user activity. For example, zones and/or sub-zones defining areas or regions of the upper having greater durometer values in relation to other zones and/or sub-zones provide a greater degree of support but reduced flexibility and cushioning at such areas/regions of the upper, whereas zones and/or sub-zones having lower durometer values provide lower support but can be configured to provide greater flexibility cushioning at such areas/regions of the upper.

It is to be understood that terms such as “left,” “right,” “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “rear,” “side,” “height,” “length,” “width,” “upper,” “lower,” “interior,” “exterior,” “inner,” “outer” and the like as may be used herein, merely describe points or portions of reference and do not limit the present invention to any particular orientation or configuration. Further, the term “exemplary” is used herein to describe an example or illustration. Any embodiment described herein as exemplary is not to be construed as a preferred or advantageous embodiment, but rather as one example or illustration of a possible embodiment of the invention.

Although the disclosed inventions are illustrated and described herein as embodied in one or more specific examples, it is nevertheless not intended to be limited to the details shown, since various modifications and structural changes may be made therein without departing from the scope of the inventions and within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims. In addition, various features from one of the embodiments may be incorporated into another of the embodiments. Accordingly, it is appropriate that the appended claims be construed broadly and in a manner consistent with the scope of the disclosure as set forth in the following claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An article of footwear comprising: a sole structure; and an upper disposed on the sole structure, the upper comprising: a first textile layer serving as an interior surface of the upper, a second textile layer serving as an exterior surface of the upper, and a plurality of compressible segments disposed between the first textile layer and the second textile layer.
 2. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the plurality of compressible segments are disposed adjacent to each other such that the plurality of compressible segments form a single layer of compressible segments between the first textile layer and the second textile layer.
 3. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the plurality of compressible segments are at least partially stacked on top of one another to form a plurality of layers of compressible segments between the first textile layer and the second textile layer.
 4. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein a first compressible segment of the plurality of compressible segments is constructed from a material different from that of a second compressible segment of the plurality of compressible segments.
 5. The article of footwear of claim 4, where the first compressible segment has a first shape and the second compressible segment has a second shape, the second shape being different from the first shape.
 6. The article of footwear of claim 5, where the first compressible segment has a first degree of compressibility and the second compressible segment has a second degree of compressibility, the second degree of compressibility being greater than the first degree of compressibility.
 7. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the plurality of compressible segments are arranged along the upper to define different support zones having different degrees of compressibility for the upper.
 8. The article of footwear of claim 7, wherein a first support zone is defined at a forefoot region of the upper that includes a plurality of compressible segments including a second compressible segment that partially overlies a first compressible segment, and the first and second compressible segments have different degrees of compressibility.
 9. The article of footwear of claim 8, wherein a second support zone is defined at a hindfoot region of the upper that includes a plurality of compressible segments including third and fourth compressible segments arranged in a side-by-side manner, and the third and fourth compressible segments have different degrees of compressibility.
 10. An article of footwear comprising: a sole structure; and an upper coupled to the sole structure, the upper including at least a first portion, a and a second portion, the upper further comprising: a first plurality of compressible segments disposed in the first portion, the first plurality of compressible segments being in an at least partially stacked orientation that forms a plurality of layers of compressible segments, and a second plurality of compressible segments disposed in the second portion, the second plurality of compressible segments being in an adjacent orientation such that the second plurality of compressible segments form a single layer of compressible segments.
 11. The article of footwear of claim 10, wherein the first portion of the upper is the toebox portion of the upper, the second portion of the upper is the heel portion of the upper, and the upper further comprising a tongue portion of the upper.
 12. The article of footwear of claim 11, wherein the upper further comprises: a third plurality of compressible segments disposed in the tongue portion, the third plurality of compressible segments being in the adjacent orientation such that the third plurality of compressible segments form a single layer of compressible segments.
 13. The article of footwear of claim 10, wherein the first plurality of compressible segments includes a first compressible segment and a second compressible segment, where the first compressible segment has a first degree of compressibility and a first shape, and the second compressible segment has a second degree of compressibility and a second shape, the second degree of compressibility being greater than the first degree of compressibility, and the second shape being different from the first shape.
 14. The article of footwear of claim 13, wherein the second plurality of compressible segments includes a third compressible segment and a fourth compressible segment, where the third compressible segment has a third degree of compressibility and a third shape, and the fourth compressible segment has a fourth degree of compressibility and a fourth shape, the third degree of compressibility being equal to the fourth degree of compressibility, the second degree of compressibility being greater than the third and fourth degrees of compressibility, and the third and fourth degrees of compressibility being greater than the first degree of compressibility, and the third shape being different from the fourth shape, and the third and fourth shapes being different from the first and second shapes.
 15. An article of footwear comprising: a sole structure; and an upper coupled to the sole structure, the upper comprising: a first compressible segment constructed from a first material, a second compressible segment constructed from a second material, and a third compressible segment constructed from a third material, wherein the first material differs from the second and third materials, and the second material differs from the third material.
 16. The article of footwear of claim 15, wherein the first material has a first degree of compressibility, the second material has a second degree of compressibility, and the third material has a third degree of compressibility, the first degree of compressibility being greater than the second and third degrees of compressibility, and the second degree of compressibility being greater than the third degree of compressibility.
 17. The article of footwear of claim 15, wherein the upper further comprises a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a hindfoot region.
 18. The article of footwear of claim 17, wherein the first compressible segment, the second compressible segment, and the third compressible segment are disposed in the forefoot region of the upper in an orientation where the first compressible segment, the second compressible segment, and the third compressible segment are at least partially stacked on top of one another to form a plurality of layers.
 19. The article of footwear of claim 17, wherein the first compressible segment and the second compressible segment are disposed in the midfoot region of the upper in an orientation where the first compressible segment and the second compressible segment are disposed adjacent to one another to form a single layer of compressible segments.
 20. The article of footwear of claim 17, wherein the first compressible segment, the second compressible segment, and the third compressible segment are disposed in the hindfoot region of the upper in an orientation where the first compressible segment, the second compressible segment, and the third compressible segment are disposed adjacent to one another to form a single layer of compressible segments. 